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Why We Love Maine Blueberries—And All The Ways To Use Them
There’s something undeniably nostalgic about Maine blueberries.
Maybe it’s the memory of coastal mornings and sun-warmed farmers’ market baskets, or the way a single berry can burst with flavor. Smaller, deeper in color and more intensely sweet-tart than their grocery store counterparts, these wild blueberries aren’t just delicious—they’re a seasonal highlight worth celebrating.
Here’s what makes them so special and all the ways we love to use them, from breakfast to cocktail hour.
Hungry for more? Explore our recipe library for ideas & inspo for your next summer gathering!
What Makes Maine Blueberries Special
Unlike the plump highbush varieties found year-round in supermarkets, Maine blueberries are wild and naturally low to the ground—often hand-raked in late summer. Their small size packs a punch of concentrated flavor, making them ideal for both baking and fresh snacking.
Grown almost exclusively in the state’s glacial soil and coastal climate, these berries are rich in antioxidants and flavor complexity. They shine in jams and sauces but also hold their own in delicate pastries and savory pairings.
Learn more about wild blueberries from the University of Maine Cooperative Extension.
Sweet Ways to Use Them
Whether you’re baking for a brunch crowd or just indulging your sweet tooth, Maine blueberries shine in just about every kind of treat.
Blueberry Scones with Lemon Glaze
Flaky, buttery scones dotted with wild blueberries and finished with a zesty citrus drizzle—perfect with your morning coffee.
Lemon Blueberry Muffins
Bright, pillowy muffins with a punch of lemon zest and bursting berries in every bite. A freezer-friendly breakfast win.
Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies
Rustic and portable, these golden pockets of fruit are as fun to make as they are to eat.
Homemade Blueberry Sauce
Simmered with sugar and lemon, this sauce is a multitasker—drizzle it over pancakes, swirl it into yogurt or spoon it onto grilled meats for a savory-sweet finish.
Savory Pairings & Unexpected Uses
Maine blueberries can go beyond the baking sheet. Their bold flavor adds depth and contrast to savory dishes and drinks alike.
Berry Citrus Juice
A vibrant blend of blueberries, blackberries, strawberries and fresh lime—perfect for a refreshing start or a brunch-worthy mixer.
Blueberry Gin Smash
Muddle wild berries with mint, simple syrup and a splash of gin for a summer cocktail that’s herbaceous and bright.
Blueberry Lemonade
A twist on a picnic classic, this version adds a pop of color and tart-sweet flavor that kids and grownups will love.
Tools To Make It Easy
Let’s be honest, half the fun of cooking is using new tools. Here are a few essentials that’ll make your blueberry prep effortless:
- OXO Berry Baskets, Set of 2: Rinse, drain and serve straight from this compact, berry-perfect colander set.
- Microplane Zester: Unlock every bit of lemony brightness for muffins, glazes and marinades.
- Sur La Table Twist Action Lemon & Lime Juicer: Fresh-squeezed lemon and lime juice makes every blueberry recipe sing.
- Sur La Table Acacia Wood Muddler: Perfect for sauces, jams and cocktails—extracting the most flavor from fresh fruit.
- Stoneware Baking Dish: Ideal for cobblers, crisps or bubbling hand pies—holds heat beautifully and looks elegant on the table.
Hungry for more? Explore our recipe library for ideas & inspo for your next summer gathering!
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